Citizen's Academy Teaches Residents Government Lessons

Published March 17th, 2010

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We've all been known to belly-ache abotu decisions by government officials from time to time. Now, one group of citizens are doing something about it. The 2010 City of Gainesville's Citizen's Academy is giving residents an in depth look at how city government is run.
The 6-week class covers everything from how the budget is drafted, to how parks are maintained and lot in between. As a result, the city hopes people have a better understanding of how and why certain governmental decision are made.
"It's a good tool for feedback. We hear ideas people have as they go through the program. They might think of a better way we can interact with the community and improve our services," says Gainesville City Manager, Russ Blackburn.
The series, called Gainesville 101, began today and focused on "Governing the City." Next week the group will learn how city government connects with the community.
For more information, visit their website... http://www.cityofgainesville.org/tabid/333/Default.aspx